Daijiworld Media Network- Washington
Washington, Sep 12: The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has released fresh images of a “person of interest” linked to the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, a close ally of US President Donald Trump, who was shot dead at Utah Valley University earlier this week.
The photographs, taken from campus surveillance cameras, show a young man wearing a baseball cap, sunglasses, and a shirt with an American flag print, carrying a black backpack. Authorities believe the suspect is a college-aged individual who managed to flee the scene after the fatal shooting.
“We are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying this individual in connection with the shooting death of Charlie Kirk,” the FBI’s Salt Lake City division said on X (formerly Twitter), while announcing a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to the suspect’s identification and arrest.
According to officials, Kirk was struck by a single bullet fired from the rooftop of the Losee Centre, a university building about 90 to 180 metres from where he was addressing students in the courtyard. The attack, carried out in broad daylight, was captured on disturbing videos that later circulated on social media. The footage shows Kirk collapsing as blood gushes from his neck while horrified onlookers scream and scatter.
Investigators recovered a high-powered bolt-action rifle wrapped in a towel in nearby woods. A spent cartridge was found in its chamber, with three more rounds still loaded. Forensic teams are also analysing a footwear impression and a forearm imprint believed to belong to the suspect.
“This was a targeted event,” said Special Agent Robert Bohls of the Salt Lake City FBI office, confirming that authorities are working “around the clock” to track down the killer.
Despite a large-scale manhunt, the shooter remains at large, and officials have yet to determine a motive. The killing is being investigated as another act of political violence shaking the United States.
Kirk, known for his influential role in mobilizing young Republican voters, was a high-profile conservative voice and a close Trump confidant. His assassination has sent shockwaves across the political spectrum.